Turtles, coral, and the Gili Meno underwater statues make this a lively half-day on the water. You visit snorkeling spots around Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, then return to a roomy pontoon for a BBQ and sea views. Seeing a turtle is never guaranteed, and the statue site can get crowded.
I like two things in particular: the crew helps beginners and children, and you can rest between swims on a boat with tables, sunbeds, and chilled music. The included meal makes this more than a quick snorkel outing, while a guide may help take underwater photos.
One thing to weigh: this is a shared cruise, not a private charter, and the water stops may feel busy. Jellyfish have been reported at the turtle area, and the four-hour trip can be a poor fit if you are prone to seasickness.
- What makes this cruise worth considering
- From Gili Trawangan to the first swim
- The Gili Meno statues: striking, and often busy
- Turtle Point: a chance, not a promise
- A third stop and time to slow down
- BBQ on board: a proper pause in the day
- The crew, photos, and beginner support
- Price, group size, and what you get for it
- Timing, weather, and practical details
- Who should book this Gili Islands cruise?
- FAQ
- Where does the cruise depart?
- How long does the cruise last?
- What snorkeling stops are included?
- Is the cruise suitable for beginners?
- Are sea turtles guaranteed?
- Is food included?
- Are cold drinks included?
- What should I bring?
- Can children join the cruise?
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What makes this cruise worth considering
- Three island stops in half a day: See snorkeling sites around Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air without arranging separate boat trips.
- A close look at the Gili Meno statues: The underwater sculptures are a memorable stop, but expect other snorkelers around them.
- A chance to spot turtles: The crew visits a known turtle area, though sightings vary and turtles may be below the surface.
- A pontoon with room to rest: Tables, sunbeds, music, and sea views give you somewhere to relax between swims.
- A BBQ meal is included: The morning option comes with lunch; the sunset version includes dinner.
- Beginner-friendly support: No prior snorkeling experience is needed, and crew members can assist newcomers and children.
From Gili Trawangan to the first swim
The cruise starts at Gili Hai Cruises on Gili Trawangan. You meet the crew at the Gili Hai office, receive a welcome drink, hear a safety briefing, and get snorkeling gear before heading out. The listed activity time is 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., while the office meet-up is 9:00 a.m. Arrive on time, and check your voucher and directions before setting out.
The tour information also gives a 9:00 a.m. departure in its itinerary, so there is a small timing mismatch to clear up when you book. The practical plan is to be at the office by 9:00 and confirm the actual boat departure with the operator. The stated return window is 1:30 to 2:00 p.m., depending on conditions and the day’s schedule.
The cruise is listed as departing from Gili Trawangan, although pickup is also described as available from Gili Meno and Gili Air. Since the starting point and pickup details do not fully match, ask the operator directly if you are staying on either of those islands. You will need to reach Gili Trawangan from Lombok mainland by boat if you are coming from Lombok.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in North Lombok
The Gili Meno statues: striking, and often busy
One of the main stops is the well-known underwater statue installation near Gili Meno. Its sculpted figures make an unusual sight beneath the surface, and the photos can be memorable. It is a different kind of snorkeling stop from a reef, so think of it as a brief look at an artwork in the sea rather than a quiet stretch of open water.
This spot can draw several boats at once. When it is crowded, you may spend more time keeping clear of other snorkelers than exploring at your own pace. If you are new to swimming in open water, stay close to your guide and keep your expectations modest about how long you will have at the statues.
The crew can help you get oriented and may take photos or video underwater. Some staff members named on past trips include guide Paizun and diver Habibi, but you should not expect a particular person on your departure. If you bring your own waterproof camera, you may be able to ask for help getting a photo while you focus on swimming.
Turtle Point: a chance, not a promise
The next highlight is the turtle area. The crew searches for turtles, and some people have seen several on one trip, while others have spotted only one or watched from a distance. Turtles can be below the surface, so you may not get the close, easy encounter you pictured. The guides may swim down to take photos, but you should not chase or crowd the animals.
Water conditions matter here. Small jellyfish have been reported at this stop, causing mild stings for some snorkelers. If you are sensitive to stings, ask the crew about current conditions before getting in. There is no need to enter the water if you are uncomfortable.
Beginners are not left to work it out alone. The crew provides gear and assistance, and past trips have included help for people who cannot swim. Still, the tour is not a substitute for swimming ability or medical advice. If you have a condition such as high blood pressure or epilepsy, the activity is not recommended for you.
A third stop and time to slow down
The cruise also visits another snorkeling point, described as Secret Point. The exact character of the water and reef can vary with conditions, but this stop offers a change from the statues and turtle area. It is a chance to see more marine life and enjoy a longer swim if the schedule allows.
Between stops, you return to the custom pontoon. This is where the format earns its keep: instead of moving between small boats or standing around on shore, you have a place to sit, dry off, listen to music, and take in the islands from the water. There are tables and sunbeds, and the boat’s open feel gives the outing a more relaxed pace than a basic transport boat.
The cruise is shared, so the atmosphere depends partly on the group size that day. Some departures have felt intimate, while others bring a larger mix of people. Do not book on the assumption that you will have the boat to yourselves. A private charter is offered for birthdays and celebrations, but it is a separate option.
BBQ on board: a proper pause in the day
The morning cruise includes a light BBQ lunch; the sunset version includes dinner. The food is prepared aboard, and chicken satay has been a particular hit. Portions have been described as generous, though meals are simple rather than elaborate. It is a welcome pause after time in the water, and you avoid having to find a meal between island stops.
If you have dietary needs, especially if you are vegetarian, check with the operator before booking. Vegetarian options are not clearly specified, and you should not assume they will be available. Drinking water and a welcome drink are included, but cold beer and soft drinks cost extra. Bring cash or confirm payment options if you plan to buy drinks.
The sunset option adds an evening meal and a chance to see the islands from the sea as the light changes. Cloud cover can spoil the sunset itself, so treat the view as a bonus rather than the main reason to choose that departure. The morning trip is a better fit if you want to finish early and keep the rest of the day free.
You can also read our reviews of more snorkeling tours in North Lombok
The crew, photos, and beginner support
The most useful feature for a first-time snorkeler is the crew’s hands-on help. Guides have assisted people with equipment, offered floats, and stayed close to swimmers who lacked confidence. The English-speaking guide and staff can give you the briefing and help you understand where to go in the water.
The crew has also helped take underwater photos and videos, sometimes using a guest’s own camera. Past crew names include Paizun, Maknun, and cook Jo, as well as Habibi and Suherman on other trips. These names give a sense of the people who have worked aboard, but staffing can change. A GoPro or photo service may involve an extra charge, so confirm the price with the company before agreeing.
The equipment has been described as clean and in good condition, but fit is personal. Check your mask before leaving the boat and tell the crew if it leaks or feels uncomfortable. A towel is included, but bring a change of clothes, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and sandals or aqua shoes.
Price, group size, and what you get for it
The listed price starts at $67.09, while the package options show prices from $60.99. Prices can vary by package and booking date, so check the final amount at checkout. The price includes a guide, snorkeling gear, towel, drinking water, welcome drink, insurance provided by the operator, admission to attractions, and the BBQ meal. It does not include transport from Lombok mainland, personal expenses, tips, or extra cold drinks.
For the cost, the value is not only the snorkeling. You get boat transport among three islands, crew support, equipment, a meal, and a place to rest between swims. That is handy if you have only half a day and would rather not arrange each stop yourself. It can feel expensive if your main goal is long, uncrowded time underwater, especially if the statues are packed or turtle sightings are limited.
The shared format is also worth understanding. Past trips have ranged from small groups to larger shared outings, and quieter dates can feel almost private. But that is luck, not a promise. If a private setting matters for a celebration, ask about the charter rather than paying for a shared ticket and hoping the boat is quiet.
Timing, weather, and practical details
The cruise runs daily, and the morning option is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The sunset option is also offered, but its exact timing is not included here, so confirm the schedule when booking. Weather and sea conditions can change the route or timing. If the harbor closes because of severe weather or force majeure, the operator may reschedule the departure without a refund.
If you are prone to motion sickness, take travel sickness tablets one hour before the activity, as recommended by the operator. Bring sun protection and a camera, and wear casual clothing over your swimwear. The activity is not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible, and it is not recommended for some medical conditions.
Children must be at least six years old. Ages six to eighteen need a paying adult, and children aged six and up pay the adult rate. There is no stated upper age limit, but each person should be comfortable with the boat ride and water conditions.
Who should book this Gili Islands cruise?
This is a good fit if you want a guided introduction to snorkeling around the Gilis, appreciate crew support, and like the idea of a meal on board. Families with older children and first-timers may value the briefing and assistance. It also suits anyone with limited time who wants to see several island spots in one half-day outing.
It is less ideal if you want solitude, a guaranteed turtle encounter, or long, uninterrupted reef time. The statue stop can be crowded, and jellyfish may be present near the turtle point. If those drawbacks feel manageable, the mix of sea time, a distinctive underwater stop, helpful crew, and BBQ makes this a practical way to spend part of a Gili stay.
Gili Islands Turtle Snorkeling BBQ Cruise from Gili Trawangan
“I had trouble finding the High Valley office. The office map on Klook is different from the actual office, and it definitely needs to be updated. T…”
FAQ
Where does the cruise depart?
The activity departs from Gili Trawangan at Gili Hai Cruises. If you are staying on Gili Meno or Gili Air, confirm pickup arrangements with the operator.
How long does the cruise last?
The scheduled morning activity runs from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., about four hours. The stated return window is 1:30 to 2:00 p.m.
What snorkeling stops are included?
Stops include the Gili Meno underwater statues, a turtle area, Gili Meno’s white sand beaches, and Secret Point. The route can change with weather and conditions.
Is the cruise suitable for beginners?
Yes. No prior snorkeling experience is needed, and the crew provides a safety briefing, gear, and assistance. You should still consider your own swimming ability and comfort in open water.
Are sea turtles guaranteed?
No. The crew visits a turtle area, but sightings vary. Turtles may also be underwater or too far away for a close encounter.
Is food included?
Yes. The morning cruise includes a light BBQ lunch, and the sunset option includes dinner. Drinking water and a welcome drink are also included.
Are cold drinks included?
No. Cold beer and soft drinks are not included, and other personal expenses are also extra.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, a hat or cap, a camera, and sandals or aqua shoes. A towel and snorkeling gear are provided.
Can children join the cruise?
Children must be at least six years old. Those aged six to eighteen must be accompanied by a paying adult, and children aged six and up pay the adult rate.
